Weather in London during Christmas

A Festive Forecast for Your London Visit

As the magical season approaches, London is your go-to destination! If this is your first time visiting, you might want to read this page to learn about the weather in London during Christmas.

As the temperatures in London are chilly and brisk, layers are essential. Additionally, all indoor places are heated, allowing you to escape the cold outdoors. This guide will provide you with all the information you require to prepare for London's winter weather.

Weather in London during Christmas scenes collage.

A Collage of London During Christmas | Lights, Red Buses and Events

Weather In London During Christmas Index

🌦️ Overview of London’s Weather in December
📅 Forecast Weather December Christmas
🎒 What to Pack for a London Christmas (Including an Interactive Packing List)
🎡 Things to Do in London — Whatever the Weather
🚦 Safety Tips and Travel Advice for December Visitors
❓ Frequently Asked Questions about London Weather at Christmas

It's important to clarify that this page highlights the Christmas season in London, which spans far more than just the month of December. The holiday season starts in early November and lasts until the first week of January. This guide covers everything you need to know about the 10-week festive season in London.

Overview of London’s Weather in December

The weather in London during Christmas is cold, and damp characterised by shorter days and occasional frost. The average highest temperatures vary between 8°C to 10°C (46.4°F to 50°F) and as the sun goes down, it reaches lows of around 2°C to 4°C (35.6°F to 39.2°F). With these temperatures, expect chilly weather, especially near open areas and near the Thames.

There is a good chance of rain with light to moderate showers. An average of 59mm (2.3 inches) spread across the Christmas period in London. Snow in London is rare, with most events consisting of brief flurries or light dustings. More snow events might occur in January or February, so you will unlikely witness a white Christmas.

Daylight hours are quite limited because the winter solstice is in motion, with the 21st of December marking the shortest day of the year. Sunlight lasts approximately from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., so it is advisable to plan any outdoor activities in the morning rather than early afternoon.

On the whole, layers are the key to keeping warm during your festive holiday in London. Whilst here you can check out our weather guides for the months of November, December and January.

🔗 Source: UK climate averages — Met Office UK

Red telephone booths on a regular rainy day in London.

Classic Red Telephone Booths in London on a Rainy Day

weather forecast for Christmas in london

The weather forecast offers a detailed overview of what to expect in London during Christmas. It includes a week-by-week outlook for Christmas and New Year’s, live updates, historical data from 2020–2024, and record statistics.

Christmas And New Year's Eve Week Weather at a Glance

Below is a table giving you a glance of what the weather will be like during the period of Christmas and New Year's.

The figures below are based on past averages, so they shouldn't be taken as real-time data.

Day	Avg High/Low	Rain Chance	Cloud Cover	Sunrise/Sunset
22nd December	6°C / 5°C	58% (2.7 mm)	56% (Partly Cloudy)	08:04 / 15:54
23rd December	7°C / 4°C	57% (2.3 mm)	56% (Partly Cloudy)	08:04 / 15:54
24th December	10°C / 8°C	62% (2.7 mm)	56% (Partly Cloudy)	08:05 / 15:55
25th December	9°C / 8°C	67% (2.2 mm)	55% (Partly Cloudy)	08:05 / 15:55
27th December	6°C / 5°C	67% (2.3 mm)	55% (Partly Cloudy)	08:06 / 15:57
28th December	5°C / 4°C	58% (2.1 mm)	54% (Partly Cloudy)	08:06 / 15:58
29th December	5°C / 4°C	57% (1.8 mm)	54% (Partly Cloudy)	08:06 / 15:59
30th December	8°C / 8°C	65% (2.5 mm)	55% (Partly Cloudy)	08:06 / 16:00
31st December	10°C / 7°C	67% (3.6 mm)	54% (Partly Cloudy)	08:06 / 16:01
1st January	9°C / 7°C	67% (3.7 mm)	54% (Partly Cloudy)	08:06 / 16:02
2nd January	3°C / 0°C	64% (3.0 mm)	54% (Partly Cloudy)	08:06 / 16:03

Live Widget of the Weather in London UK

The live widget below updates consistently with the current weather in London England of today and the next 6 days. It is not specific to the Christmas season, however, it will bring you live updates as the days of Christmas approach. The widget shows the high and low temperature of the day including the type of forecast.

LONDON WEATHER LONDON WEATHER

Year-by-Year Breakdown of Christmas Temperatures (2020 - 2024)

The weather for Christmas Day (December 25) from 2020 to 2024. The table highlights the daily maximum and minimum temperatures, rainfall and whether snow occurred. The data was pulled from Wanstead Meteo, a historical dataset that covers Christmas Day statistics from the year 1840 to the present.

🔗 170 Years of Christmas Day in London

Year	High / Low Temp	Rainfall	Snow
2020	5.6°C / -0.1°C	0.1 mm	No
2021	7.3°C / 5.1°C	8.91 mm	No
2022	11.5°C / 3.9°C	1.3 mm	No
2023	12.9°C / 6.7°C	2.13 mm	No
2024	10.1°C / 6.2°C	0 mm	No
Average	9.5°C / 5.2°C	2.5 mm

London Christmas parade cyclists at Trafalgar Square.

Cyclists Parade Dressed as Santa and Elves

Record statistics for Christmas in London

The data below shows certain record weather statistics of Christmas Day since 1840. It includes the warmest and coldest temperatures, the wettest Christmas and the number of Christmases that London saw snow. These statistics are based on the statistics of each Christmas from 1840.

🔗 170 Years of Christmas Day in London

Metric	Value	Year
Highest Max Temp	15.2°C	2015
Lowest Max Temp	-2.7°C	1840
Warmest Min Temp	11°C	1983
Coldest Min Temp	-13.3°C	1860
Wettest	24.9 mm	1927
Number of Snow/Sleet Christmases	19

What to Pack and Wear in London for Christmas

When preparing for a winter holiday in London, particularly during Christmas, it is essential to prioritize layering, waterproofing, and warmth. The city's winter climate is affected by cold and rainy conditions, requiring a strategic balance between these elements.

Given the variety of activities available, both indoors and outdoors, it is crucial to pack appropriate clothing for each setting. Ensuring comfort throughout your holiday requires a careful selection of clothing. The following guide outlines the essential items to pack for your trip.

Essential Clothing for Comfort and Style

For a typical winter's day in London, it is advisable to wear multiple layers and carry a jacket at all times. Additionally, it is recommended to have a hat, gloves, and a scarf throughout the day. Similar attire should be worn during the evening.

Waterproof Winter Coat: A durable, waterproof coat is essential for maintaining warmth and dryness in London's frequent rain and chilly temperatures.
Thermal Tops and Base Layers: Thermal layers are ideal for regulating warmth and ensuring comfort during fluctuating indoor and outdoor temperatures.
Sweaters and Fleece Layers: Cosy mid-layers, such as wool sweaters or fleece tops, provide additional warmth without excessive bulk.
Hat, Gloves, and Scarf: These items are essential for protection against windy or frosty conditions, with wool or insulated options offering excellent warmth.
Thermal Socks: Wool or insulated socks help keep feet warm during outdoor activities, particularly when spending extended periods exploring holiday markets.
Comfortable Waterproof Boots: Well-fitted, waterproof boots are ideal for walking through damp streets, ensuring comfort for all-day wear.

Accessories for Rain and Changing Conditions

The following items are recommended for London's unpredictable weather, as they will help you stay dry. London's winter is often characterized by frequent rain showers, making it essential to have a few rain-resistant items on hand.

Compact Umbrella: A wind-resistant, compact umbrella is highly useful in sudden rain.
Rain Poncho or Lightweight Raincoat: If you prefer not to carry an umbrella, a lightweight rain poncho is a convenient alternative.
Waterproof Backpack or Bag: Useful for storing layers, an umbrella, or souvenirs, and keeps items protected from rain.

Your Interactive Christmas Packing List

London at Christmas is cool, damp, and changeable. Use this to generate a personalised packing checklist based on your trip length and preferences.

Your Christmas Packing Checklist

Tip: London highs around 8 °C, lows near 3 °C, with frequent light rain. Waterproof outerwear and shoes beat bulky snow gear.

Clothing

Outerwear & Weather

Shoes & Gear

Essentials

Toiletries & Health

Travel Admin (Docs & Money)

Why these items?

Late December in London is damp and breezy. Layering beats bulky items. Expect light rain roughly 1 in 3 days and short daylight (~7h50m). Waterproof outerwear and comfy walking shoes are must-haves.

By preparing these essentials, you will be well-equipped for London's festive holiday season, whether attending outdoor events, admiring the Christmas lights, or exploring cosy indoor attractions. With the appropriate items, you can ensure a comfortable, stylish, and memorable Christmas in London.

London in rainy days during Christmas time.

Rainy Winter Day Near St. Paul's Cathedral

Things to Do in London — Whatever the Weather

The holiday season transforms London into a captivating winter wonderland, providing visitors of all ages with an enchanting blend of festive charm, sparkling lights, and memorable seasonal activities.

A visit to London in December is incomplete without exploring the renowned Christmas markets, where one can find handcrafted gifts, mulled wine, and delicious seasonal treats that encapsulate the holiday spirit.

Beyond the markets, London offers a plethora of Christmas events, ranging from family-friendly theatre performances to vibrant holiday fairs that bring joy to the bustling city. Iconic attractions in London during Christmas come alive with dazzling festive street lights, adorning famous streets such as Regent Street and Oxford Street, while adding magic to lesser-known corners and neighbourhoods.

For a more curated experience, consider joining one of the many Christmas tours in London, which offer guided walks through festive hotspots and insights into the city's rich holiday traditions. Whether one's itinerary includes visits to world-class museums or strolling through the city's stunning light displays, crafting a four-day Christmas itinerary in London ensures an experience of the very best of this festive season in the heart of England.

Below are the events for Christmas throughout November, December and January.

Regent Street Christmas lights lit up on a Christmas evening.

Regent Street London Illuminated By Angel-Shaped Christmas Lights

How To Stay Safe In London During Christmas
Safety Tips and Travel Advice for December Visitors

The weather in London is a combination of freezing mornings, sudden rainfall and overcast days. Sometimes the weather conditions can interfere with your holiday plans. Safety is the number one priority to ensure a smooth Christmas holiday. Due to the combination of winter weather, crowded events, and increased tourist activity, navigating the city safely in December can be challenging.

Your goal is to explore and discover London during the peak time of the year. From festival lights, festive events, and bustling streets.

The following tips will help you stay safe during the winter months in London.

Iconic London Red Buses Parked on a Snowy Winter Day

1. Weather Safety: Staying Warm and Dry

To maintain comfort and safety during London's winter weather in December, it is essential to dress appropriately. The most effective strategy is to dress in layers: begin with a thermal base layer, add a jumper, and conclude with a waterproof coat. Exercise caution during frosty mornings, particularly in the vicinity of historic sites and parks.

Given the frequent wet days, it is advisable to carry a wind-resistant umbrella and wear waterproof boots. Additionally, ensure skin hydration by regularly applying moisturizer and lip balm to prevent dryness.

2. Navigating Crowded Events and Christmas Markets

The holiday season in London is characterised by a plethora of popular events which attract substantial crowds, particularly during weekends. To navigate the most congested periods, it is advisable to book tickets in advance and attend during off-peak hours, such as weekday mornings.

Maintaining vigilance in densely populated areas is crucial, as pickpockets often target inattentive visitors. It is recommended to secure personal belongings and keep them nearby. With rainy days a common occurrence, beware of slippery conditions when walking around, so make sure you bring good traction shoes.

For group travel, it is advised to establish a designated meeting point in the event of separation. Whenever possible, utilise contactless payment methods, and if carrying cash, store it in an interior pocket or money belt to ensure safety.

3. Weather-Related Transport Tips

London's transport system is generally reliable; however, the combination of winter weather and holiday crowds can lead to delays. It is advisable to check schedules in advance using the Transport for London (TfL) app, particularly around Christmas Day and New Year's Eve when service reductions occur.

Allowing extra travel time to accommodate increased crowds and potential weather disruptions, especially near major attractions, is recommended. Additionally, having a secondary plan, such as utilizing a taxi or rideshare app, can mitigate the impact of unforeseen delays.

For those opting to walk or cycle, it is essential to be mindful of slippery surfaces due to frost or rain, particularly in parks and along the Thames. On the whole, planning is crucial for ensuring smooth travel during the festive season.

4. Health and Safety Precautions for Crowded Spaces

At Christmas, London's festive attractions are often crowded, so it's important to carry hand sanitiser and use it frequently, particularly after visiting busy markets or transport hubs. It is suggested to wear a mask in densely populated areas to prevent winter illnesses.

Breaks at nearby cafés for rest and refreshments with hot drinks help to prevent fatigue. The cold, damp air can sap energy faster than expected.

When visiting London with children or elderly family members, plan ahead to ensure safety and comfort. Make sure elders and children are dressed very warmly with hats, scarves, and gloves. Take breaks at family-friendly attractions or similar establishments, which often have rest areas to recharge. For elderly visitors, choose routes with seating options and avoid heavily crowded events to make navigating the city easier and more enjoyable for everyone.

Tower Bridge and Thames Beautifully Lit Up

Frequently Asked Questions about London Weather at Christmas

How cold is London at Christmas?

The damp air and occasional breeze in London can make temperatures feel colder than they actually are. It is advisable to dress warmly in layers and accessorize with hats and gloves. Even if the temperatures do not seem extremely low, London's winter humidity and occasional breezes can create a chillier atmosphere.

Will it snow in London this Christmas?

A white Christmas is rare in London; however, there is a slight possibility of witnessing light snow flurries. This type of weather is more common in January or February. Nonetheless, it is advisable to be prepared for unexpected weather conditions.

Are Christmas markets open in bad weather?

Yes, Christmas markets in London continue to operate in rain or light snow. However, for severe weather conditions, it is advisable to check individual market websites for any updates or announcements. This ensures that visitors are well-informed about any changes in market operations due to adverse weather.

Is Christmas a good time to visit London?

The Christmas period is a time of year when London transforms into a magical wonderland, making it a highly recommended destination to visit. However, it is important to note that during this period, London will be exceptionally busy with numerous activities and a high volume of people exploring the city.

Is London crowded during Christmas?

During the Christmas season, London becomes a bustling metropolis, attracting numerous visitors who gather at Christmas markets, light displays, and shopping areas to partake in the festive celebrations. The city is filled with a vibrant energy as people explore the various festive attractions and activities available.

Where to stay in London at Christmas?

A key tip when selecting where to stay in London during the Christmas season is the proximity to major attractions, such as Christmas markets, festive light displays, and iconic landmarks. Regardless of your chosen location, it is essential to keep in mind the nearest metro stations and bus stops, as these are crucial for navigating the city efficiently.

Is Christmas in London worth it?

Indeed, visiting London during the Christmas period is highly recommended, as the city adopts a unique and enchanting atmosphere unlike any other time of the year. This festive season offers a distinct ambience that is both vibrant and magical, providing a memorable experience for visitors.

As a once-a-year festivity, London at Christmas is an experience not to be missed. The weather, although unpredictable, is an essential part of what makes such a special Christmas holiday. By using our guide, we hope that the information provided has helped plan your holiday, from the Christmas weather to the interactive packing list.

We wish you a pleasant holiday and a very Merry Christmas.

Photo Sources

London Bridge At Night - Photo by Sergiy Voronov on Unsplash
London during Rainy Season - Photo by Abi Ismail on Unsplash
Telephone boxes, during the rain - Photo by Jack Finnigan on Unsplash
Snow London Double Deckers - Photo by Yelena Odintsova
Christmas Lights at Mayfair London - Photo by Zetong Li
Cycling in London - Photo by Sincerely Media on Unsplash

Find The Best Places To Stay Nearby

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